Apple HomePod vs Amazon Alexa - voice assistants compared

Apple HomePod with Siri vs. Amazon's Alexa - in this article we compare two of the most popular current smart speaker voice assistants. We took a close look at the two systems and show you the most important differences.

HomePod vs. Amazon's Alexa: voice control

The smart speakers come with various voice controls: Apple uses the Siri system, which has been known for many years by mobile devices. Amazon has developed assistant Alexa especially for its smart speaker. That the voice control works reliably and intuitively is probably the most important requirement for a good smart speaker:

• In the basic functions, Siri and Alexa don't take much. Both perform simple tasks such as sending messages, creating alarm clocks or entering appointments in the calendar. The systems are quite intuitive. For example, you can say "Write in my calendar for tomorrow evening ..." instead of giving a specific time. Or: "Tell Peter that I will come a little later". Here is converted directly into a message to the corresponding contact.
• As soon as the commands become a bit more specific, Siri cannot keep up with Alexa in the Apple HomePod and shows clear weaknesses. Siri refuses to work when the command is given to set a second, additional timer.
• Amazon's Alexa also has advantages in terms of compatibility: Amazon speakers can be used with both Android and iOS devices. The Apple HomePod only works with iOS devices. Siri also works with fewer apps in the HomePod. Playing music via Spotify or calculating a route in Google Maps simply does not work.
• Alexa is also one step ahead when it comes to pronunciation. Both voice assistants sound natural and pleasant over long distances. Errors often occur in the German pronunciation of Siri.

Multimedia in the Apple HomePod and Amazon Echo

The second important function of a smart speaker is the playback of music, for example for background sound or to watch films. The Apple HomePod plays its trump card in this area.

• A variety of speakers in the Apple HomePod ensure that the music is optimally distributed in all directions. The built-in room detection is special. The HomePod analyzes its current location and then adjusts the individual loudspeakers so that the room is optimally soundproofed.
• In addition, there is a strong bass, which remains without audible distortion even at high volumes. The HomePod is therefore also suitable for listening to loud music in larger rooms.
• The speakers of the Amazon Echo are sufficient for a quiet background sound and offer a decent quality here. As soon as the music gets louder, the speaker can no longer keep up. The larger Amazon Echo Plus offers better sound quality, but it still doesn't come close to the HomePod.
• In the multimedia area, however, there is another point in favor of Amazon Alexa: voice control supports the popular streaming service Spotify. On the HomePod, you can only play music from Apple Music via voice control, which requires an additional subscription.